The new entry level version of the X3, the xDrive20i, is powered by a 2.0-liter aluminum four cylinder gasoline engine featuring a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, Double Vanos variable camshaft control and Valvetronic variable valve control system. It delivers 184HP at 4,800 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque from just 1,250 rpm.
The X3 xDrive20i will be offered with either a 6-speed manual or, optionally, an 8-speed automatic transmission both of which (as the “x” denomination reveals) will direct power to all four wheels.
The second new powerplant is a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel with twin-stage turbocharging and the latest generation of BMW's common-rail direct injection system with up to 1,800 bar of pressure. It will power the X3 xDrive35d, which with 313HP and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque from 1,500-2,500 rpm, is the most powerful version yet in line-up.
At low engine speeds, only the smaller turbocharger operates with the compressed air passing through the larger one building up pressure. Thus, when maximum power is needed, an electronic controller engages the larger turbocharger promising “spontaneous response”. The xDrive35d comes standard with four-wheel drive, an 8-speed auto gearbox and an auto stop-start system.
Both the xDrive20i and the xDrive35d will go on sale this fall.
Other changes to the X3 include the revised Auto Hold and ConnectedDrive systems plus new interior trim options.
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